What are the State College Spikes playing for Wednesday and Thursday?
First, they still have a shot at winning 40 games. They entered a completion of a suspended game Wednesday against Jamestown 37-35. If the Spikes win their final three games, they are guaranteed of finishing among the top half of 14 New York-Penn League teams.
Next, they are playing for individual accomplishments. Center fielder Jim Rapoport has a a chance to lead the league in stolen bases and left fielder Nathan Southard can end the season with a .300 batting average. Other players are attempting to boost their numbers to leave a lasting impression with the St. Louis Cardinals. A few percentage points in a batting average or a lower ERA could help a player begin next year with a full-season team.
There also is some symbolism attached to a strong finish. A few strong performances to close the season may convince some fans to juggle their 2007 schedules around home dates. Momentum from a stong finish could help the front office sell season tickets and group packages during the offseason.
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